Tiago Abiodun moves to TTF Liebherr Ochsenhausen
The squad planning of TTF Liebherr Ochsenhausen is in the final stages and now another new addition can be announced. The 16-year-old Tiago Abiodun is moving to the Upper Swabians and will join the professional squad from the coming season. The talented Portuguese youngster comes from his home club Sporting Lisbon, from which he was loaned to first division club AD Galomar during the current season.
With a 12:2 record, he was able to make a positive impression there and even gained experience at the highest level in the Champions League with a match against Borussia Düsseldorf. The son of the still active Nigerian table tennis pro Bode Abiodun has also attracted international attention. Last year, he became Portuguese men's champion, won the individual title at the U15 European Championships and the bronze medal at the U15 World Championships.
With the signing of Tiago Abiodun, TTF is making an investment in the future, as President Kristijan Pejinovic explains: “I'm delighted that we're getting an outstanding young man in Tiago and I think the pleasure is mutual. He was first on our radar back in 2019, when he won the title at the Euro Mini Champs in Schiltigheim at the age of 12 against Flavien Coton, who was a regular guest at the Liebherr Masters College from then on. But Tiago has never been forgotten in our minds either, because his performances at this tournament already promised a great future.” Pejinovic added about the transfer decision that he was particularly inspired by a performance last year: “Our coaches and Bogdan Pugna in particular have watched and scouted him time and again over the past few years, and his performance at the 2023 World Youth Championship in Slovenia in particular stuck in our minds and showed us that he is one of the best talents in Europe in his age group. He is also physically very advanced for his age.” The president continues: “With this transfer, we are staying true to our philosophy of focusing on young players who we want to challenge and develop. As a left-handed player, Tiago also gives us another facet and option for the team. Together with Leo Iizuka, they complement each other perfectly because they both speak the same language, which also makes it easier for them to integrate. Now we're looking forward to getting started with the young guns and helping them.”
Tiago Abiodun himself can hardly wait to get started either, as he explains in a short interview at the start:
1.) With the TTF, you're moving to a big club in the table tennis industry. How does that feel for you?
The move to TTF Liebherr Ochsenhausen is an outstanding opportunity for me to become a member of a club with a great history and unforgettable moments. I look forward to making my contribution and being part of the team's future successes.
2.) What was your first reaction when you heard about the request?
My first reactions were nervousness and excitement. At the same time, however, I also saw the contact as a fantastic opportunity for me, which I was determined to make the most of.
3.) At a young age, you are now moving abroad for the first time. How will you approach this situation personally?
Starting this new challenge at only 16 years old is very exciting for me and it starts a new chapter in my life. I want to approach it with an open mind, a willingness to learn and a strong work ethic and it will be a top priority for me to take the opportunity to grow both as a player and as a person.
4.) What are your personal goals for the TTF in the short, medium and long term?
My goal for next season is to quickly adapt to the new environment, establish myself as a valuable member of the team and continuously improve my skills. My goal is also to play my part in the team's success and achieve personal milestones by maintaining a positive attitude and working hard.
Source: Press release TTF Liebherr Ochsenhausen